Prince Andrew has decided to remove the personalized Duke of York car registration plates from his luxury vehicles. The 65-year-old Royal opted not to transfer the plates AY02 DOY and AY03 DOY to his new Range Rover worth £115,000. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) records confirm that these plates are no longer associated with any vehicle.
This move comes shortly after Andrew agreed to relinquish his Duke of York title following revelations of misleading statements about his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Amid further controversy sparked by accusations from Virginia Giuffre in her posthumous memoir, the prince has consistently denied any misconduct.
Recent findings by the Mirror reveal that the registration plate AY02 DOY, previously on his dark green Range Rovers, is now inactive according to DVLA records. Andrew sold his Range Rover for £50,000 last November after minimal usage. Subsequently, he acquired a new automatic Range Rover priced at £115,000, fitted with a different registration plate – KN74 EFK.
Additionally, the personalized plate AY03 DOY on his green Bentley, valued at £220,000, was used when he attended the christening of Princess Beatrice’s daughter Sienna in 2022. However, this plate is also untraceable in DVLA records, indicating it is not currently assigned to any vehicle. This situation may prompt Prince Andrew to discontinue the use of other DOY titles within his estate.
Reports suggest that the prince has been particular about the arrangement of his personal items, including a cherished collection of bears and soft toys on his bed. Detailed instructions for Royal servants, titled “DOY bed: Points for turn down & making the bed,” were reportedly followed to prevent any displeasure from Andrew.
Last Friday, Andrew voluntarily surrendered his titles and opted out of the Order of the Garter, Britain’s oldest and most esteemed chivalry order. Pressure has been mounting on Buckingham Palace to address his association with Epstein, leading to calls for action against him.
Furthermore, discussions are underway for Andrew and his ex-wife, Fergie, to vacate their 30-bedroom mansion in Windsor. The couple aims to retain separate residences within the Windsor Estate, with Andrew reportedly eyeing Frogmore Cottage, previously occupied by Harry and Meghan. Sarah is reportedly interested in Adelaide Cottage, formerly owned by William and Kate.
Allegations have surfaced that Prince William issued warnings to Beatrice and Eugenie to persuade their father to vacate Royal Lodge. The future King reportedly hinted at reviewing the princesses’ titles should Andrew not comply. Andrew’s office has refrained from commenting on these claims.